As if that were not enough, the Ma-Song climb bladed ladders, walk over hot coals and bathe in hot oil - usually with their piercings still intact.

They appear to be in a trance - I suppose you would too if you had a pineapple or garden spade piercing your face.

But this is not to be taken lightly...

Last year one devotee was severely dealt with for piercing a pigs tongue and trying to pass it off as his own.

The good news is the festival brings in around 200 million Baht from tourism.

Phuket Vegetarian Festival has been held every year since 1825.

And it always falls on the first day of the 9th month of the lunar calendar.

Maybe next year you might think about joining in?

Best,

Rebecca

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